In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, the spotlight turns to host Nicole Doran as her sister, Mackenzie Peterson, takes the interviewer’s seat. Nicole shares her candid health journey, from growing up in a fitness-focused family and navigating PCOS, to finding balance through functional medicine and holistic practices.
She opens up about body image struggles, college and post-grad challenges, and the pivotal lifestyle shifts that changed her health. Nicole also discusses the role of emotional well-being, her experience with peptides and GLP-1s, and the importance of finding what works for your unique body. This conversation is an honest, inspiring look at what it means to advocate for your own health.
What we cover in this episode:
🌱 Growing up in a fitness-centered family and early body image struggles
⚡ Living with PCOS and the challenges of getting a diagnosis
🥑 Discovering health coaching, nutrition, and functional medicine
💊 The benefits and complexities of peptides and GLP-1s
💡 Why emotional health plays such a big role in physical wellness
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
01:41 – Early Body Image and Family Influence
04:26 – High School Challenges and PCOS Symptoms
08:57 – Struggles with Diagnosis and Treatment
14:57 – College Life and Health Struggles
28:03 – Discovering Health Coaching and New Approaches
40:12 – Health Improvements and Lifestyle Changes
41:31 – Finding Love and Feeling Safe
54:39 – Dealing with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome
01:00:03 – Exploring Peptides and Supplements




